'A vine bears three grapes: the first of pleasure, the second of drunkenness, and the third of repentance.'

Anacharsis

* Little Ole Wine Drinker, Me (lyrics by Dean Martin)

Addendum: Two Ladies Who No Longer Need A Special Introduction

Katie and ESVM have penned a few words for us and sent them posthaste all the way from chilly San Francisco. Many thanks to you both. Katie says:

Interesting all these different interpretations of partying with Bacchus. None of these paintings look excessively ribald, which is nice. I can't decide if I want to join in on the fun à la Rubens or Poussin though.

Yesterday I was at the Treasures from Afghanistan [Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul] exhibit in SF (I'll toss up some postcards soon at KF) and one of my favorite pieces was the bronze handle of a bowl with busts of female followers of Bacchus. Plus there were some amazing glass cups and goblets that would have been perfect vessels for wine.

And yes, ESVM had a little something to say on this topic:

Feast

I drank at every vine.The last was like the first.I came upon no wineSo wonderful as thirst.

I gnawed at every root.I ate of every plant.I came upon no fruitSo wonderful as want.

Feed the grape and beanTo the vintner and monger;I will lie down leanWith my thirst and my hunger.